This fall, the leading global commercial vehicle fair achieved record results: at IAA Transportation 2024 in Hanover, almost 1,700 exhibitors from 41 countries gathered, and the number of visitors reached 145,000. Even more notable were the 145 European and global premieres, once again testifying to the innovation of commercial vehicle manufacturers. “We are driving the transformation,” declared industry representatives.
The IAA Transportation fair originated from the IAA (Internationale Automobil-Ausstellung), first held in Berlin in 1897. Initially focused on passenger vehicles, it split into two segments in 1991. Since then, IAA Passenger Cars has been held every odd year in Frankfurt, while IAA Transportation takes place every even year in Hanover. The event has since developed into an independent fair specializing in commercial vehicles, making it crucial for the transportation industry.
Companies, investors, and experts eagerly await new developments at this event, where key trends and technological advancements are often first announced. This year, the focus was on climate-neutral and digital solutions, with the true stars being electric and hydrogen-powered trucks, along with supporting equipment that promotes green transport.
From Heavyweights to Small Vehicles: Sustainability as a Universal Priority
Leading commercial vehicle manufacturers showcased their innovations from September 17 to 22, and here are some highlights that attracted the most attention.
MAN stood out with its latest model, the eTGL—a 12-ton electric truck designed specifically for light distribution transport. Daimler Truck presented the e-Actros 600, a truck with a range of up to 500 km and advanced features like megawatt charging and active braking assistance. This model was also awarded the prestigious “International Truck of the Year 2025” by journalists. IVECO highlighted a light commercial vehicle based on Hyundai technology, while Quantron launched hydrogen fuel cell trucks, including the QHM FCEV Aero with a range of up to 700 km and the QLI FCEV model with a 450 km range. Volvo displayed various models powered by electric batteries, fuel cells, and e-fuels, including the new Volvo VNL with autonomous driving technology. Ford showcased its vision for sustainable transport with electric trucks from its F-Line series and plans for hydrogen engine development.
Tesla’s Debut
Although the American manufacturer Tesla did not introduce any new products at IAA 2024, its first-time participation alone garnered significant attention, with the Tesla Semi truck receiving a lot of interest. However, one question remained unanswered after the fair: when will this truck enter the European Union market?
As a reminder, almost seven years have passed since the first European companies ordered the Tesla Semi, but the truck is still not available to customers or ready for EU entry. While Tesla trucks are already navigating roads in the United States, carriers on the Old Continent can only wait patiently.
Notable Performance by Chinese Manufacturers
This year’s event revealed another interesting trend: after cars, Chinese trucks are increasingly targeting the European market. Chinese manufacturers offer a wide range of electric, hydrogen, LNG, and diesel-powered vehicles, challenging European giants. Chinese exhibitors had a much stronger presence at IAA 2024 than two years ago, with impressive booths and advanced technologies, particularly from brands like Sinotruk, Sitrak, and Shacman.
Visitors were, for example, captivated by the futuristic, aerodynamic Yellow River X7 truck from Sinotruk. Both the tractor and trailer are shaped more like droplets than rectangles. This design reduces air resistance by 40% compared to trucks of similar size, allowing approximately 10% fuel savings, according to the manufacturer.
Over 6,300 Test Drives!
One of the main attractions was the test drives of the latest emission-free commercial vehicles, conducted both within the fairgrounds and on public roads. According to organizers’ statistics, during IAA 2024, held from September 17 to 22, guests had the opportunity to test 60 vehicles, resulting in over 6,300 test drives—almost 15% more than at previous editions of the fair.
The high demand for test-drive slots once again demonstrated that the transportation industry is highly interested in new technologies that will shape its future.
